In an announcement that has caught political circles in Minnesota by surprise, Governor Tim Walz declared he will not pursue the U.S. Senate seat soon to be vacated. Instead, he is contemplating a campaign for a third gubernatorial term. Governor Walz’s spokesperson, Teddy Tschann, conveyed his enthusiasm for his current role, emphasizing the governor’s dedication to the state.
This decision follows closely on the heels of U.S. Senator Tina Smith’s recent announcement of her intent not to seek reelection in 2026, an announcement that ignited speculation among political hopefuls from both major parties. Smith’s planned departure marks the state’s first open Senate race since 2006, sparking significant interest.
Among those already in the fray is Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan, who promptly declared her candidacy following Smith’s news. Additionally, potential Democratic candidates include U.S. Representatives Ilhan Omar and Angie Craig, Attorney General Keith Ellison, and Secretary of State Steve Simon. Despite the crowded field, Walz’s team indicates he does not intend to endorse a candidate in the primary.
The Democratic Party faces a challenging road ahead in their efforts to reclaim the Senate, particularly amid Republican dominance and the absence of an incumbent such as Smith in upcoming key races. The GOP currently leverages a majority to bolster former President Donald Trump’s objectives.
Governor Walz first gained national attention when Kamala Harris selected him as her vice presidential candidate during her bid for the presidency. Should Walz secure a third term as governor, it would equate him with Rudy Perpich’s enduring legacy, marking him among the longest-serving governors in Minnesota history.
Despite its Democratic leanings, Minnesota’s political landscape has become increasingly competitive. Significantly, the state has not seen a Republican victory in statewide elections since 2006, when Tim Pawlenty secured reelection. However, GOP candidates narrowed the gap in the 2022 elections.
The Republican contenders for the soon-to-be-vacant Senate seat include Royce White, an outspoken critic of the GOP establishment and a former NBA player who ostensibly remains committed to the 2026 race. Adam Schwarze, a retired Navy SEAL and past congressional candidate, has declared his candidacy. Other potential GOP figures considering the race include Michele Tafoya, state senators Karin Housley and Julia Coleman, state representative Kristin Robbins, and Ryan Wilson, known for his previous auditor bid. Julia Coleman, notably, has ties to former U.S. Senator Norm Coleman, the last Republican to represent Minnesota in the Senate.
Attorney Chris Madel, initially pondering a Senate bid, announced his decision to abstain from the race on Wednesday, further shaping the unfolding political landscape.